marque.com.au AUTOMOTIVE NEWS SERVICE MAXIMUM CELEBRATIONS FOR MINI'S BIRTHDAY
By EWAN KENNEDY 4 May 2009 The Morris Mini is one of the most influential automotive designs since the end of the Second World War. Now the little car that change the world is about to celebrate its 50th birthday, and will do so in a huge way over an action packed weekend at the Silverstone race track in the UK from 22 - 24 May 2009. The Silverstone circuit is situated just 50 kilometres from Oxford, the birth place of the Mini, so is an ideal location. Over ten thousand Mini fans from all over the world, including Australia, are expected to travel to Silverstone to join in the celebrations, many of them travelling in their own cars. There they can take part in, or be spectators of, a big range of activities, including clubsport action, a music festival and an unforgettable party atmosphere. The third and fourth races of the popular Mini Challenge Clubsport series will take place over the weekend. Additionally, guests will have the opportunity to drive laps on the track themselves, or with a Mini Challenge driver. To remind us of the old days, the Mini Seven Racing Club will be arranging a race with up to 40 classic Minis. There will also be stunt shows, go-kart races, driver training programs and much more. A comprehensive exhibition will guide Mini lovers through the fascinating heritage of the brand. Music will be a big part of the weekend. On Friday night Calvin Harris starts off the weekend playing a full live set with his band. Chris Thompson, former lead singer of Manfred Mann’s Earth Band will be opening the Saturday night entertainment with a special guest appearance. He will be followed by Raygun, which has just been personally picked by US superstar Pink to support her on her current European tour. The final support band is Twisted Wheel, a band with a reputation as one of the most driven and ferocious live bands around. Headlining Mini United’s Festival 2009 is Paul Weller. Former lead singer of The Jam and The Style Council and a successful solo artist, Paul is a music icon and a fitting headliner to such a special event. “As a lifelong Mini driver, I am really happy to be taking part in its 50th anniversary”, commented Paul. Relaxing can be done at numerous lounge areas, bars and restaurants and a kids’ area will provide entertainment for the small ones. Registration can be made online at: www.MINIUnited.com/MINIunited2009. Further information on the event can also be found here. For fans wanting to experience MINI Production up-close-and-personal, two special plant tours are offered at oxford.plant-tours@mini.com/. © Copyright Marque Publishing Company
